Thursday, March 1, 2012

Give your Gardens a Jump Start

"Spring is when you feel like whistling even with a shoe full of slush. " - Doug Larson

Just when we thought spring was coming early, we get hit with snow.  But I know it will be short lived (fingers crossed) so I continue to count the days until the nurseries open and the days are spent getting my hands into warm soil.  If March is anything like February (whoops...did I just jinx it??), we should be able to get into our gardens earlier than usual and knock off a few spring chores.  Who knows….maybe this means we’ll spend a bit more time enjoying the garden this upcoming season!  Ahhh….with spring, hope springs eternal.

  • Transplant and divide snowdrops (Galanthus) after the flowers fade but the foliage is still green.  Any spring crocus that bloom this month can be divided just as the foliage has yellowed and died.
  • Although I don't use them, trunk covers from protected trees can be removed after the last threat of winter storms.  Stakes from trees that are now growing straight can be removed.
  • Prune non-flowering trees in early March while they are still dormant.  Remember not to prune spring flowering shrubs such as lilac, magnolia, azalea, and forsythia until after they finish blooming.  Otherwise you'll snip off their gorgeous flowers.
  • Its time for houseplants to break their dormancy and get ready for their spring growth.  To help them along, fertilize every 2nd watering.  You can also repot any plants that haven't been repotted in awhile.  Fresh soil will give the plants the nutrients they need to push out new growth.
  • If you're lucky enough to own a greenhouse, be sure that it's properly ventilated during early spring when fluctuating temps are common.  Open the windows on mild days and close them before nightfall.
  • Celebrate the arrival of spring on March 20th!!  Raise a glass of wine and hope that the dreaded New England fifth season of mud is a short one.



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